The Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF) is pleased to continue its partnership with the African School on Decentralisation (ASD), which will take place in Cape Town, South Africa, from 821 November 2026. Now in its sixth year, the ASD brings together practitioners, policymakers, academics and other specialists from across Africa to explore the theory and practice of decentralisation and strengthen knowledge and collaboration on local governance. Read More

On 1920 November 2026, CLGF, through the Commonwealth Sustainable Cities Network (CSCN), and Mutare City Council will co-host the Regional Learning Exchange on Digital Municipal Revenue Administration and Public Financial Management in Mutare, Zimbabwe. Read More

On 21 October, the two islands Carriacou and Petite Martinique in Grenada formally signed an agreement to adopt the newly developed CSO Register. The directory captured 182 local stakeholders spanning schools, youth groups, faith-based organisations, cultural bodies, womens groups and business associations. Read More

Democracy is often discussed through elections, national institutions and the laws that govern a country. Those foundations are essential. But on the ground, residents experience democracy when they can connect with their elected officials; when complaints about road conditions lead to improvements; when public services respond fairly to residents needs; and when information is accessible and, crucially, flows both ways. Read More

On 30 September 2026, the newly appointed Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Mahama Ayariga (MP), convened a high-level breakfast meeting in Accra with key development partners, and heads of departments and agencies. Following his official swearing-in on 29 August 2026, the meeting served as an introductory engagement aimed at fostering dialogue, outlining ministerial priorities and strengthening strategic partnerships for local government development in Ghana. Read More

The Pre-COP 31, 5-8 October, is being hosted by the Government of Fiji and it will include a Leaders Meeting which will take place in Tuvalu. The Pre-COP is the final major diplomatic moment before COP31 and will focus on translating commitments into action, shining a light on the needs of the region hardest hit by the impacts of climate change. Issues such as keeping 1.5C in reach; climate fianc, adaptation and resilience will all be high on the agenda, as will the opportunity to elevate the voice of the Pacific. Read More